On September 19, 2017, a devastating earthquake of magnitude 7.1 struck Mexico, affecting not only the population but also the world of football. Nine years later, América and Chivas will meet again on this significant date.
The earthquake, which occurred at 1:14 PM with its epicenter on the borders of Puebla and Morelos, resulted in 228 deaths in Mexico City and caused material damage in several states, including Morelos and Puebla. In light of this tragedy, the national classic between América and Chivas, scheduled for September 23, 2017, was postponed a day after the disaster in an effort to not distract security and Civil Protection forces attending to the emergency.
In addition to the suspension of the match, it was decided that the ticket sales for the game would be allocated to reconstruction efforts in the affected areas, turning the event into a community support activity during a time of crisis. Liga MX also paused its activities during this period, prioritizing the aid needs in response to the emergency.
The Classic was finally played on October 18, 2017, nearly a month after the earthquake, at the Estadio Azteca. During the match, Chivas opened the scoring with a goal from Carlos Cisneros in the 55th minute, but América quickly responded with goals from Oribe Peralta and Renato Ibarra, securing a 2-1 victory. Despite the win, the context of the earthquake made this classic particularly linked to the events of September.
Today, nine years after that tragic date, América and Chivas will face off again on September 19, 2026. This match not only remembers the impact of the earthquake on Mexican life but also highlights how tragic events affect even the fiercest sports rivalries. This Saturday’s Classic will be held at the Estadio Banorte and will be broadcast starting at 9:15 PM Central Time on Canal 5 and TUDN.
Source: www.infobae.com
